5 cool places to go this fall

Fall is the perfect time to get outdoors. Can't think of anything? We've got you covered -- from a walking tour of San Juan Capistrano in October to Thanksgiving at Harwood Lodge. Consider these hikes, trips and tours -- and then go to our online calendar for a hundreds of upcoming Chapter adventures.

San Juan Capistrano Mission and Historic City Tour
Oct. 26

Join a 90-minute docent-led architectural walking tour ($5 donation) through historic San Juan Capistrano, including the vibrant Los Rios District. After a casual lunch enjoy a tour of the “Jewel of the Missions” renowned for its beautiful courtyard gardens. $5 donation for tour. Click here to sign up.

Morro Bay Car Camp
Oct. 31-Nov.3

Spend Halloween weekend at Morro Bay State Par and experience what makes this major migratory bird stop and amazing coastal setting a must-see. Spend the weekend hiking at Montana de Oro State Beach, kayaking or walking in an estuary, bird watching and strolling around town too. $55 per person for 3 nights camping; $40 per person for 2 nights camping. O-rated, hosted by the Gay and Lesbian Section. Click here to sign up.

16th Annual Backbone Trail Festival: Mishe Mokwa Trail to 6 Peaks
9 a.m., Nov. 2

Each of the first 3 Saturdays and Sundays in November and the first weekend in December, the Angeles Chapter will lead a hike on the 70-mile Santa Monica Mountains Backbone Trail. This hike starts at the Mishe Mokwa trailhead to 6 peaks in 9 miles with 2,700 feet of gain. Strenuous hike to Sandstone Peak (highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains), Boney, Inspiration, Exchange, Tri- Peaks, and Big Dome Peak. Return on the Mishe Mokwa portion of the Backbone Trail, passing Split, Echo, and Balanced Rocks. O-rated, hosted by the Santa Monica Mountains Task Force. Click here for contact information.

San Jacinto Backpack
Nov. 2-3

If you've never been to this extraordinary peak above Palm Springs, here's your chance to go and spend the night. The Sierra Sage of Orange County sponsors this O-rated  12-mile backpack with 2,400 feet of gain that includes a trek to the summit at 10,804 feet in elevation. Backpackers stay at Round Valley Campground for the overnight. O/I-rated. Click here to contact leaders and for information.

Harwood Lodge Thanksgiving Weekend
Nov. 28-Dec. 1

Enjoy Thanksgiving at your beautiful stone lodge nestled among the pines of the Angeles Forest at 6000 in elevation at the foot of Mt. Baldy. The lodge provides the turkey; you provide all the side dishes and dessert (or $10 contribution). Happy hour at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. Come for Thanksgiving Day or stay through the weekend! Open to all members ($12/night) and their guests ($15/night – limit 2). No reservations required. Lodge opens Thursday at 9 a.m. and closes Sunday at 3 p.m. Bring Sierra Club membership card. Click here to contact leaders and for information.

Photo: Spooners Cove at Montana de Oro State Park in Morro Bay, Calif. Credit: Tom Politeo